Mandy

Senior firsthand Guide
Johnson City, TN

TW: Murder

Mandy has been a firsthand Guide (Peer Support Specialist) at firsthand for over a year, and has been promoted to Senior firsthand Guide for her exceptional performance. Before joining the team, she spent years supporting individuals in recovery, drawing from her own lived experiences to connect deeply with those she serves.

Mandy’s journey began in a tumultuous childhood filled with trauma and disconnection. As a young girl, Mandy’s father tragically killed her mother. Raised by her grandparents, Mandy struggled to feel a sense of belonging. Her neurodivergent mind, later diagnosed as ADHD, made it difficult for her to form deep connections with her caregivers, despite their love and support. 

This sense of isolation, compounded by the traumas she experienced, led her down a path of substance use at an incredibly young age. Mandy tried drugs for the first time when she was just nine years old, searching for an escape from the overwhelming feelings she didn’t yet understand. Although her grandparents provided a stable environment, Mandy's internal struggles left her feeling alone and disconnected from the world around her. She eventually dropped out of high school due to the bullying she suffered.

Throughout her life, Mandy battled undiagnosed ADHD, anxiety, depression, paranoia, and the effects of misdiagnosis. After years of using substances to cope, she has been in recovery for over seven years. The journey hasn’t been easy—Mandy has faced loss, homelessness, and the challenges of managing her mental and physical health, including osteoarthritis that affects her daily life. But with determination and resilience, she has found her way to a place of stability, thanks in part to the support of therapists, psychiatrists, and her colleagues. A pivotal moment in her recovery came when she connected with a supportive therapist and psychiatrist who understood her needs and provided effective treatment, including EMDR therapy.

Working at firsthand has been a transformative experience for Mandy. She is deeply passionate about her role as a Senior firsthand Guide, finding purpose in supporting individuals with both their mental health and substance use challenges. Mandy's understanding of the complex nature of recovery allows her to approach each person with empathy, knowing that everyone’s journey is unique. She believes in the power of connection and strives to offer others the same understanding and non-judgmental care she has sought throughout her own life.

Mandy appreciates being part of a workplace that embraces her holistic wellness. She values firsthand’s understanding of both mental and physical health needs- the culture allows her to bring her whole self to work without fear of judgment or repercussions. Mandy earned her GED and is in college pursuing a degree in social work. Her goal is to be able to help others in many ways, not just through peer support.

Outside of work, Mandy finds joy in crafting, particularly making her home a reflection of her newfound peace and positivity. She also loves tattoos. Lately she’s discovered a softer side of herself that thrives in her creative projects and a newfound appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.